Teaching Middle School ELA
Caitlin Mitchell
Welcome to the Teaching Middle School ELA Podcast, where we help English Language Arts teachers create dynamic, engaging lessons while balancing the everyday responsibilities of teaching middle school.I’m Caitlin Mitchell, a longtime ELA educator and curriculum creator, and I know firsthand how challenging it can be to manage grading, planning, and student needs—while still trying to have a life outside the classroom. That’s why every Tuesday and Thursday, I bring you practical strategies, curriculum inspiration, and innovative teaching ideas to help you feel confident, prepared, and energized.Whether you're looking to revamp your writing instruction, streamline your planning process, or engage even the most reluctant readers and writers, you’ll find actionable support here. You'll also hear real classroom stories, fresh lesson ideas, and occasional interviews with other passionate educators.If you teach reading and writing to middle schoolers and want to stay inspired and up-to-date with best practices in ELA education, you’re in the right place. Tune in every week and let’s transform your teaching—together.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jul 2, 2024 • 16min
Episode 291: Summer Lesson Planning Series: Taking it to the Next Level: Designing Effective "Beyond" Lessons
Explore the transformative power of 'beyond lessons' in ELA unit planning, allowing students to creatively demonstrate their understanding. Learn how to craft impactful lessons using standards and essential questions, with insights from literary analysis. Discover how AI can enhance your lesson planning and support diverse student needs. Plus, streamline your process with effective frameworks, making teaching more efficient. Embrace innovation in lesson planning with new technology designed to boost educational outcomes!
Jul 1, 2024 • 15min
Monday Mindset: Forget the Mood You're In
In today's Monday Mindset episode, I'm exploring the true secret to success. It may not be the secret you'd initially think! I want to show you the power behind sticking to your plan, no matter what! Tune in to hear how insights from Leila Hormozi have impacted my perspective on the benefits of consistency and discipline. By sticking to your plan, regardless of your emotional state, you will build resilience, stay organized, and make actual progress toward your goals. It takes practice and we may not always get it right, but intentionally working towards building this discipline will benefit your life in many different areas!Here's to another day of intentional living!
Jun 25, 2024 • 19min
Episode 290: Summer Lesson Planning Series: Elevating Student Mastery with "Through" Lessons
Dive into the world of 'through lessons' that boost student mastery through engaging, structured activities. Learn how innovative digital tools streamline lesson planning, making it more efficient for educators. Explore backward planning techniques that prepare students for assessments, essays, and presentations. Discover the launch of a comprehensive ELA portal designed to enhance teaching skills and curriculum access. Perfect for getting a head start on effective lesson planning for the upcoming school year!
Jun 24, 2024 • 10min
Monday Mindset: How to Pour Into Yourself
In this Monday Mindset, I want to discuss powerful strategies to infuse more joy, peace, and intentionality into your life. I'll guide you in identifying activities that fuel your inner soul. You know, like those activities that make you lose track of time! Let's consider the impact integrating more activities like these into your routine, and celebrating every little victory, can have on your life!You'll learn to quiet external noise and focus on what brings you true happiness and fulfillment. Perhaps you'll find that focusing on positive, supportive relationships can uplift your mindset and energy, and walk away with strategies to set boundaries with negative influences!Here's to another day of intentional living!
Jun 18, 2024 • 18min
Episode 289: Summer Lesson Planning Series: Setting the Stage: Crafting Engaging "Into" Lessons
Discover the art of crafting engaging 'Into Lessons' that captivate middle school students right from the start. Learn how a structured lesson planning framework can simplify the process and enhance student engagement. Dive into creative strategies like 'popcorn predictions' and 'five word wonder' to make lessons interactive and enjoyable. Explore practical tips for overcoming common planning challenges, and gain insights into utilizing resources effectively to set the stage for successful ELA units.
Jun 17, 2024 • 11min
Monday Mindset: Your Purpose is NOT for you
What if your life's true purpose is linked to the positive impact you have on others? In this Monday Mindset, I explore the connection between living your purpose and making a meaningful difference. We'll consider how roles, like teaching and inspiring others, can lead to a more fulfilling life.We'll reflect on our impact and recognize our unique gifts to align with a purpose that enriches both our lives and those around us. Celebrating others' successes and reflecting on the growth of those you've helped can be a powerful source of inspiration and fulfillment.Here's to another day of intentional living!
Jun 11, 2024 • 20min
Episode 288: Summer Lesson Planning Series: Standards: Doctors Don't Wing it and Neither Should You
Explore the vital role of educational standards in effective lesson planning. Discover how a structured approach can lead to better student outcomes. Learn about the journey from textbook reliance to innovative lesson design, enhancing engagement and self-assessment. Uncover practical strategies for mapping out your curriculum with a focus on standards alignment. Plus, get tips on batch planning to streamline your lessons and transform your teaching experience for the upcoming school year!
Jun 10, 2024 • 11min
Monday Mindset: The Only Person You Can Control is You
Ever feel weighed down by anger and frustration? In this Monday Mindset, discover practical steps to unburden yourself from negative emotions and foster positive relationships. By focusing on your own journey and not letting others' negativity affect you, you can build a more resilient and fulfilling life.I discuss the common frustration of unmet expectations and the futility of hoping others will change. Instead, I urge you to consider the power you have over your own actions and emotions. Accepting people as they are and taking responsibility for your own well-being can transform your life. Learn how to redirect your energy from frustration and judgment towards self-improvement and personal development.Here's to another day of intentional living!
Jun 4, 2024 • 36min
Episode 287: Lesson Planning is So 2010 (Just Like Printing Boarding Passes)
Explore the art of effective lesson planning with captivating openings, focused content, and impactful conclusions. Learn how to streamline your curriculum and embrace batch planning to save time and reduce stress. Hear inspiring stories from educators finding joy in their teaching, including saying goodbye to the Sunday Scaries. Discover the importance of a cohesive scope and sequence that makes curriculum planning a breeze, all while maintaining flexibility for a healthier work-life balance.
Jun 3, 2024 • 9min
Monday Mindset: Serve Others
In this Monday Mindset episode, I am exploring the question: Can an act of kindness truly transform your life? I believe that there is transformative power in serving others that will bring profound joy to your life! By shifting our focus from our own challenges to helping those around us, you will instantly foster gratitude, which assists in reducing any anxious feelings because you're focused on being thankful. I also challenge you to consider the impact incorporating simple acts of service into your daily routine could have on your life and those within your circle! I hope you'll accept this challenge and join me in serving others and experiencing a positive energy boost each and every day!Here's to another day of intentional living!
